What to Expect

We understand that parents and caregivers have a long list of health and safety concerns for their child. You may be worried about food and nutrition, proper medical care and supplies, and managing diabetes during a week of high-energy activities while being away from home. No need to worry. A team of diabetes health care professionals at Camp Hertko Hollow is on site to take care of our campers.

Customized activity schedules that accommodate the needs of a child with diabetes

Overall focus on safety while not compromising on FUN!

Going to camp for the first time can be exciting at any age. First time campers usually have lots of questions. We will try to give you some information here. You can call our office or email Deb Holwegner, Camp Director (d.holwegner@camphertkohollow.com) with your questions anytime.

Getting ready for camp involves some shopping and some packing. Click here to get some ideas on what to pack (and what not to pack). Once your camper is registered we will also be mailing you a Parent Packet (about 3 weeks prior to your camp session) that is full of helpful information. Click here to read the 2019 Parent Handbook which contains more detailed information.

Each camper is part of a cabin community: usually 8 campers and 3 counselors. The campers in one cabin are all similar in age and/or development level. The counselors are all age 18 or older. Our counselors are all required to provide us with references, have undergone background checks, have been interviewed and have taken part in training and onsite orientation. Usually at least one counselor has T1D; often one of the counselors is studying pharmacy, nursing or medicine. Cabins follow a schedule together and eat at the same table each meal. Clinicians are available at every meal, before bedtime snack and whenever your camper may need an extra check-in. Clinicians monitor blood sugars after bedtime from midnight until all campers are “in range”.

Who do you live with:

Camp Hertko Hollow does a world of good for children with diabetes. They try new activities, new ways to work and play with others, and even new foods. Diabetes camp plays a very special role in the growth and development of a child living with diabetes. It’s the one place where a child doesn’t have to explain about diabetes and it’s the one place a parent can trust that “lows” and “highs” are understood. Not to mention that for many parents the week their child is at camp serves as a much needed break from the disease!

Campers can look foward to:

Fun in the great outdoors while enjoying new and challenging activities

Forming a support system of friends that last a lifetime

Enjoying camp knowing that there are people that understand diabetes.

Parents can look forward to:

Physicians and nurses with medical expertise provide around the clock supervision

Counselors who understand your child's needs and are strong role models

The daily tasks of the diabetes regimen are integrated into the camp educational activities

Camp Activities:

Activities vary by cabin and age, and include swimming, rock wall climbing, horseback riding, arts and crafts, zip-lining, and so much more! We also have a daily D.I.G sessions (Diabetes Information and Guidance), practice counting carbs and making nutrition choices. Evening activities include a talent show, Inspiration Point, and Honor Point!